ROSEAU, Dominica – President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Dr Julian Hunte has lauded the people of Dominica for their overwhelming support of the game of cricket during the just concluded inaugural Test match on that island.
Fans turned out in the thousands to watch the West Indies and India do battle in the Third and final Digicel Test at Windsor Park, the first Test match at the scenic venue.
The match ended in a draw with the Windies battling hard with both bat and ball as they were cheered on by the exuberant local fans.
On Saturday (Day 4) the crowd was estimated at 7,000 and on Sunday close to 10,000 fans came through the gates to show their love for their favourite team and players.
“On behalf of the WICB, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to the people of Dominica for hosting a superb Test match. Dominicans waited a long time for their first Test match and when the occasion finally arrived they came out in their numbers to celebrate the event and ensured it was a massive success,” Dr Hunte said.
“The way the fans came out to support the game of cricket and the West Indies team was great to see and demonstrated the tremendous love for the game on the island. People all over the world got a true picture of what is on show on the island as everyone enjoyed the outcome.”
Dr Hunte added: “I also want to thank the organisers for doing an excellent job on the ground as they ensured the teams enjoyed maximum comfort. I must also thank the sponsors – Digicel and all the many local sponsors – for their continued support of the game and the cricket-loving people in the West Indies.
“We are also seeing definite signs of improvement in West Indies cricket on the field. I want to congratulate the team for the manner in which they are battling fiercely and for their never-say-die attitude,” Dr Hunte said.
“It is a clear indication that we are on the right developmental path when players like Fidel Edwards and Ravi Rampaul can return from injury in the impressive manner they have, Devendra Bishoo shows the skills and composure he has and Kirk Edwards delivers on the big stage after grooming at the West Indies A Team level.”
